Mission of the Holy See in Ukraine

Both are headed to Ukraine and, depending on the situation, intend to reach the country in the upcoming days.

The cardinals will bring help and become ambassadors not only to the Pope, but also to the entire Christian nation, which expresses solidarity with the people of Ukraine and say: "War is madness! Stop, please! Look at this cruelty!" There are rivers of blood and tears in Ukraine. It is not just a "military operation", but a war that sows death, destruction and misery."

Pope Francis said: “The number of victims is increasing, as is the number of people fleeing, mothers and children especially. The need for humanitarian aid in this tormented country is rocketing every hour. I sincerely call for provision of safe humanitarian corridors, guaranteed assistance and easier access to the surrounding areas to provide vital assistance to our brothers and sisters who are oppressed by bombs and fears. I thank all those who welcome refugees. First of all, I urge the armed attacks stop, so negotiation and common sense – prevail. I emphasize that international law must be respected”.

Pope Francis' latest speech also aims to draw attention to many similar situations around the world. The Holy Father said last Sunday: “With a broken heart because of everything what is happening in Ukraine, let us not forget about the wars in other parts of the world, such as Yemen, Syria, Ethiopia. I repeat, put down your weapons! God is with peacemakers, not with those who resort to violence”, (Angelus Prayer, February 27, 2022).

Cardinal Czerny continues to draw sad parallels between the suffering people of Ukraine and long-running conflicts that no longer attract the world's attention. He also hoped that African and Asian people in Ukraine, who also suffer from fear and displacement, would be allowed to seek asylum without discrimination. Since most of the people who are fleeing are believers, he will affirm that religious help should be offered to everyone, despite ecumenical differences. Last but not least, all efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and the organization of humanitarian corridors require coordination, good organization and a common strategy to reach out to all victims and provide effective assistance.

Press Service of the Holy See

translated from Italian by the Secretariat of the Head of the UGCC in Rome